Abstract:
Meteorological and hydrological variables were measured in the ablation zone of the McMurdo Ice Shelf (MIS) to characterise and quantify the energy and water budgets of the MIS in areas where biological and chemical assessment studies have been made (RISE programme). Two main and several smaller climate stations were installed on different morphological regions of the MIS (clean ice and dirty ... ice). Meteorological parameters measured include air temperature (at 1.5m and 10m), relative humidity, windspeed and direction, net radiation, solar radiation and snow heat flux. The relationship between the energy budget and water budget was determined by measuring in detail the energy parameters over an ice catchment then measuring the flow from the catchment. Hydrological parameters were measured at two sites in the pinnacle ice area and a detailed radiation balance was measured in conjunction with flow from the site. In collaboration with another event a mobile station was set up around a pond for 3 days recording radiation, temperature (sensors placed on the bank, in the water and on and under the cyanobacterial mats) and wind variables. Two transects of the undilating ice area were made with measurements of slop angle and length, gravel thickness, moisture content and aspect being made on slopes next to the ponds.

Quality
Data summaries from each climate station is included in the Science Report submitted to Antarctica New Zealand. All of the data is held by NIWA Ltd., New Zealand. Please contact Dr Gordon Brailsford for more information.